By Einar Jensen, Risk Reduction Coordinator
Evergreen Fire/Rescue
Frozen pipes. That is a gift nobody wants to receive this holiday season or in the
new year. With some preparation, we can prevent pipes from freezing and mitigate
consequences if they do freeze.
Drain landscape sprinkler systems and swamp coolers.
Open cabinets under sinks to circulate warm air to piping.
Allow water to drip through faucets.
If you’ve had any work done to the internal sprinkler system this year, make sure
insulation was replaced around the pipes.
When water does freeze, it expands and can break pipes. Unfortunately, those
holes usually aren’t discovered until after the ice thaws and liquid water begins leaking
or spraying outward.
If that happens, you’ll want to know where the building’s water shut-off valve is
located. Make sure your employees know where it is and when to use it in case you’re
not there.
Knowing the location of water shut-off valves at home is important, too.
Avoid using heaters or torches to thaw pipes because those heat sources could
ignite fires. If you do use space heaters or similar technology, keep them at least three
feet away from combustibles.
We at EFR are committed to our community and its wellness. Visit our website
(www.evergreenfirerescue.com) or email me for information on other risk reduction
topics or resources that can help your business.
